The relationship of perceived stress and lifestyle choices among Filipino adolescents

Abstract

Stress-related problems associated with lifestyle are increasing among Filipino adolescents. Middle school and high school students have been identified as the most vulnerable groups being linked to incidence of chronic diseases and high risk of engagement to negative behaviors. This study aimed to (1) identify the perceived stress between male and female subjects, (2) identify the lifestyle choices between male and female subjects, and (3) determine the relationship of perceived stress and lifestyle choices among adolescents in the Philippines. Standardized questionnaires were used in conducting this study and subjects included 504 adolescents from grade eighth (N=286) and tenth (N=218) students of Sta. Lucia High School. The between group analyses revealed a significant relationship of perceived stress to lifestyle choices of the Filipino adolescents. The results showed that females have a lower perceived stress and chose healthier lifestyle than males. In regression analyses, the correlations between perceived stress and lifestyle choices have significance in the positive items of Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) as the dependent variables of Healthy Lifestyle Personal Control questionnaire (HLPCQ). Female subjects were able to significantly control and manage perceived stress even when exposed to various stressors compared to their male counterparts as well as having healthier lifestyle choices. Perceived stress level of Filipino adolescents has a significant relation to their lifestyle choices. Findings of the study highlight the need to develop and have a proper implementation of school-based healthy lifestyle programs and prevention measures among adolescents.

Keywords: Perceived stress, lifestyle choices, adolescents, Filipinos